Phil Collins is known around the world as one of music’s most recognizable voices, but his journey to becoming a frontman was never planned. In fact, when he first joined the legendary rock band Genesis, Collins was sitting behind a drum kit, not standing at a microphone. His story is one of unexpected change, fear, growth, and incredible success.
Collins joined Genesis in 1970, after the band had already released two albums. At the time, Genesis was a progressive rock group led by singer Peter Gabriel, known for theatrical performances and complex music. Collins auditioned as a drummer, and even before playing a note, he made a strong impression. He already knew the band’s material, and according to Collins, Gabriel noticed his confidence right away. It was clear he belonged.
In those early years, Genesis had a gentle and atmospheric sound. As Collins later reflected, even the harder parts of their music felt “soft.” The band wasn’t edgy, but they were creative and ambitious. A major turning point came when Genesis appeared on the front cover of Melody Maker, a hugely important music magazine at the time. Collins said this moment instantly made the band feel important and even increased how much they were paid for shows. It was proof that Genesis was on the rise.
Everything changed in 1975 when Peter Gabriel decided to leave the band. His departure left Genesis in a difficult position. Losing a lead singer can destroy a band, and Genesis struggled to find a replacement. They auditioned several singers, but none felt right. Eventually, the band made an unexpected decision: Phil Collins would become the new lead vocalist.
For Collins, this was terrifying.
He has openly admitted that singing at the front of the stage did not feel natural. The drums had always been his “security blanket.” Sitting behind them gave him a sense of protection, something between him and the audience. Standing alone at a microphone made him feel exposed. Suddenly, everyone was looking at him — not the drummer, but the singer. That pressure was overwhelming at first.
Despite his fears, Collins slowly grew into the role. His voice connected with audiences in a new way, and Genesis began to evolve. The band’s music became more accessible, reaching a much wider audience. This era turned out to be Genesis’ most commercially successful period, especially during the late 1970s and 1980s.
At the same time, Collins launched an incredibly successful solo career, somehow balancing it alongside his work with Genesis. Songs like In the Air Tonight showed a more emotional, personal side of him, and fans around the world responded.
Years later, health issues made it difficult for Collins to continue drumming. During Genesis’ farewell tour in 2022, his son Nic Collins took over on drums while Phil focused on singing. It was a powerful full-circle moment — a father watching his son take his place behind the kit.
Looking back, Phil Collins’ journey shows that sometimes the most uncomfortable changes lead to the greatest success. Stepping away from the safety of the drums was frightening, but it allowed him to become one of music’s most influential artists. From the back of the stage to the very front, Collins proved that growth often begins where comfort ends.